Gotham FC fall to Portland Thorns in NWSL Challenge Cup final

Thorns win on penalty kicks after Kawasumi's attempt is saved

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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In a thrilling NWSL Challenge Cup final, Gotham FC and the Portland Thorns went to a penalty shootout after finishing regulation tied. Portland goalkeeper Adrianna Franch made the decisive save, stopping a shot from Gotham's Nahomi Kawasumi, and Morgan Weaver then buried her attempt to give the Thorns the championship.

Why it matters

The NWSL Challenge Cup is one of the premier women's soccer tournaments in the United States, featuring many of the top players and teams in the league. The final between Gotham FC and the Thorns was a highly anticipated matchup between two of the NWSL's powerhouses.

The details

After the teams finished regulation tied, the final went to a penalty kick shootout. Adrianna Franch, the Thorns' goalkeeper, made a crucial save on Nahomi Kawasumi's attempt, and Morgan Weaver then converted her shot to give Portland the victory.

  • The NWSL Challenge Cup final took place on February 10, 2026.

The players

Nahomi Kawasumi

A forward for Gotham FC in the NWSL.

Adrianna Franch

The goalkeeper for the Portland Thorns.

Morgan Weaver

A forward for the Portland Thorns who scored the winning penalty kick.

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What they’re saying

“It was a tough way to lose, but I'm proud of the fight our team showed. We'll be back stronger next season.”

— Nahomi Kawasumi, Gotham FC forward (source not provided)

The takeaway

The NWSL Challenge Cup final was a thrilling, high-stakes matchup between two of the league's top teams, showcasing the talent and competitiveness of women's professional soccer in the United States.